With the busiest summer in the history of soccer in the United States approaching for both professional clubs and the national teams, U.S. Soccer decided to reduce the number of MLS teams that will enter the tournament proper from 12 teams last year to eight. However, every MLS team other than Toronto FC will participate in the tournament either in qualifying rounds or in the tournament proper.

The Dynamo were expected to be included because of their status as MLS champions.

In all, 40 teams, including 24 professional and 16 amateur clubs, will compete in the 2007 edition, which kicks off in June and runs through Oct. 2. The U.S. Open Cup is open to all amateur and professional soccer teams affiliated with U.S. Soccer. The tournament has crowned a champion for 93 consecutive years dating to 1914.

Qualifying for the first round is slated to be completed by May 28, with the pairings announcement shortly thereafter. The Dynamo and the other seven MLS teams enter the tournament on July 10 in the third round.

The Dynamo reached the semifinals of the U.S. Open Cup last year, where they fell to the Los Angeles Galaxy 3-1.